Newcastle in the race to sign highly-touted defender who has been compared to Barcelona great Gerard Pique

Newcastle United are desperate for defensive reinforcements and have entered the race to sign highly-touted Benfica centre-half Tomas Araujo, according to O Jogo (PressReader Page 18).

The Magpies spent most of last summer trying to sign a new centre-half but could not get a deal for first-choice target Marc Guehi over the line.

The only defensive arrival at St James’ Park was Lloyd Kelly, who arrived on a free transfer after leaving Bournemouth.

Newcastle fans were thoroughly underwhelmed, but the January transfer window offers the transfer team a chance to make amends, and they are eyeing Araujo.

The 22-year-old centre-back has become a mainstay in the Benfica backline under Bruno Lage, partnering with stalwart Nicolas Otamendi ahead of Antonio Silva.

Araujo has been outstanding for Benfica this season. He has won 70 percent of his aerial and 63% of his ground duels while helping them keep three clean sheets in nine league appearances.

His elegant style on the ball and measured defending has earned him comparisons to Barcelona great Gerard Pique.

The Portuguese international was highly touted from his academy days and cut his teeth on loan. He is now shining for Benfica, and Newcastle want to bring him to England.

However, it will not be straightforward for the Magpies as he has several suitors across Europe.

Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea are all interested in Araujo.

Palace made a €30 million offer that was swiftly rejected last summer. Chelsea and PSG were also keen, but nothing materialised.

New United manager Ruben Amorim knows about Araujo’s qualities and could push the club to swoop for him.

However, Newcastle will hope to win the race to secure his services.